Orlando is a hot spot for convention stops and speakers. Thursday, one particularly notable speaker — the former first lady of the United States — dropped by.

  • Michelle Obama spoke at American Institute of Architects Conference
  • It was her 1st public appearance since leaving White House
  • Obama talked about mentoring kids, promoting education

Michelle Obama spoke to thousands of architects at the American Institute of Architects conference, held at the Orange County Convention Center. It was her first public appearance since returning to private life.

"It was pretty incredible. I happen to be a Barack Obama supporter," said Nancy Carreon, an architect from Chicago. "When I heard she was going to speak today, it was even more special."

Carreon said she attends AIA conventions every year, learning about the latest products in the design world. But, she particularly enjoys hearing annual keynote speakers, from Colin Powell to Bill Clinton. Michelle Obama was high on Carreon's list.

“I felt energized when I watched her at the Democratic National Convention, every time I’ve seen her speak, even more so today," she said.

“I never thought we had a chance of getting her. I actually started working on this last August," said Kathy Compton with the American Institute of Architects. "I just thought we had a snowball's chance in heck of getting her, but were thrilled. She said that we were unique, and she identified with what we did."

Compton said that they were sensitive to the current political environment when booking Obama.

“But, we thought she sort of transcended all that negativity out there and had a message for us that would resonate with our members," she explained. "That message is that you can have real impact."

No television news cameras were allowed inside, but everyone in the room snapped pictures and videos.

For some, Obama’s appearance was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and the notion of instilling pride in communities is something that Carreon, a fellow Chicagoan, said she understands.

“When she talks about places, the South Side where she grew up... I actually grew up in the south shore as well," she said. “(She promotes) the idea of mentoring children and the future of children, not only in the architectural profession — which could use more people of color and women in general — just how we can build communities."

Obama was asked a number of questions in the discussion, especially about her transition to private life and her future. She said she wants to continue helping women around the world to access education, but running for political office is not part of her plan.